Student-led solutions for a sustainable future
Open SU is committed to empowering students to tackle the world's most pressing challenges through innovative, impactful projects that create positive change in communities locally and globally. Through our Sustainability Impact Award programme, Open SU and The Open University are providing funding and support for student-led initiatives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate measurable impact across environmental, social and economic aims.
Student-led initiatives have the power to drive real transformation in addressing complex global challenges such as climate change, inequality, poverty and sustainable development. This award recognises that students possess unique perspectives, energy and creativity that can contribute significantly to building a more sustainable and equitable future.
Our programme supports projects that demonstrate innovation, collaboration, community engagement, scalability and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrated by creative impact measures. Whether developing environmental solutions, addressing social challenges or creating economically sustainable initiatives, we encourage students to think boldly and act decisively in pursuit of meaningful impact.
Through the Sustainability Impact Awards, we hope to invest in changemakers who will help build a more sustainable, equal and prosperous world.
Three available grants
Environmental Sustainability Impact Award, £500
Grants of up to £500 are available for student-led projects that create measurable environmental impact in your community or beyond through:
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Climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives
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Biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration
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Sustainable resource management and circular economy solutions
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Renewable energy and clean technology development
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Waste reduction and recycling programmes
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Environmental education and awareness campaigns
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Sustainable transport and mobility solutions
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Water conservation and pollution prevention
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Sustainable agriculture and food systems
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Projects must demonstrate clear environmental outcomes, community engagement and potential for replication or scaling beyond the initial implementation.
Social Impact Sustainability Award, £500
Grants of up to £500 are available for student-led projects that create meaningful social impact in your community or beyond through:
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Community development and empowerment initiatives
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Education and skills development programmes
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Health and well-being support services
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Social inclusion and equality projects
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Cultural preservation and celebration initiatives
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Digital inclusion and accessibility programmes
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Food security and nutrition projects
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Housing and homelessness support
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Mental health and social care innovations
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Youth and elderly support programmes
Projects must demonstrate clear social outcomes, community benefit and meaningful engagement with target beneficiaries.
Economic Sustainability Impact Award, £500
Grants of up to £500 are available for student-led projects that create an economically sustainable impact in your community or beyond through:
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Social enterprise and sustainable business development
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Green skills training and employment creation programmes
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Sustainable supply chain and fair-trade projects
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Local economic development and regeneration through sustainable practices
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Innovation and entrepreneurship support
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Digital economy and technology access projects
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Sustainable tourism and cultural economy initiatives
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Agricultural and rural economic development
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Circular economy and resource efficiency models
Projects must demonstrate a positive impact on local economic development or employment opportunities.
Support and Mentorship
Award recipients will receive:
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Financial support of up to £500
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Access to the Open University's sustainability network and expertise
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Mentorship from academic or community partners (subject to availability)
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Opportunities to present at OU sustainability events
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A platform for sharing results and good practice
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Connection to relevant networks and resources
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A digital certificate and a badge on completion of the project
Who can apply?
Current Open University students who are members of Open SU (undergraduate or postgraduate) working individually or in teams. Collaboration with local businesses, social enterprises and economic development organisations is encouraged.
Only individuals (who are Open University students and are members of Open SU) are eligible to apply. Students applying for the award must be starting a brand-new project.
Members of Open SU are defined by Section 11 of the Articles of Association. All students registered with The Open University are automatically members of Open SU. If you are unclear if you are currently registered, please check the OU's Conditions of Registration Section A4, Registration, and your student record. Honorary Life Membership and extended membership qualify as members of Open SU.
Private businesses, for-profit organisations, parish and town councils, charities, community and voluntary groups, clubs, not-for-profit organisations, School PTAs, ‘Friends of’ groups and religious bodies are not eligible to apply.
To be eligible for any Sustainability Impact Award, applicants must show: a clear understanding of sustainability principles, including long-term thinking, preventing unintended consequences, involving a diversity of stakeholders, collaboration, and integration; and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goalss and the University’s sustainability approach.
Location
Projects can be implemented in your local community, nationally, or internationally, but must be led by Open University students.
Contact information
For questions about the Sustainability Impact Award programme, please contact:
Email: oustudents-projects@open.ac.uk
Phone: 01908 638427
Address: Open University Student Union, Betty Boothroyd Library, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA
Open SU staff: Ciara Linehan, Projects Officer
Student Support: Jethro Tieman, Sustainability Representative
Apply here